Jewellery material A-Z

GLASS

Glass has
been known since the middle of the second millennium BC. It is generally agreed
that glass-making began in one of the countries of the eastern Mediterranean,
although glass experts still do not completely understand how it was first
made, nor is it known exactly where or when, but most probably, it was an
accident. At first glass in the form of obsidian (natural glass of volcanic
origin) was used to make tools, weapons and sharp jewellery. It was also used in making ornaments.
Glass is a substance that is both brittle and hard (6 on the Moh’s scale). It
can be either transparent or opaque. Glass pastes could be colored and applied
to small objects to make them look like precious stones. The paste could also
be poured into terracotta moulds to make small statues, plaques and jewellery
components. Despite the fragility of glass, many ancient and beautiful objects
have been preserved. Today, superb modern designs are made in Scandinavia,
while classical pieces are reproduced in Italy – both command very high prices.
Glass is the symbol of fragility, delicacy and transparency. Glass was used as
a symbol of love in the Cinderella‘s story (remember her glass slipper).

Glass jewellery
People who collects fine glass and all who admire it consider this invention to
be one of man‘s most exciting discoveries. However, most people today consider glass
too ordinary to be worn in jewellery. It is unfortunate that glass jewellery no
longer receives the respect that it did in the past; yet, in time it may enjoy
revived popularity, as have wooden beads for example.
In our online jewellery shop you can get blue glass and purple glass pendants
and glass earrings.